A "UNIQUE" process to decide on Scotland's next national park has begun.

For the first time nominations will be driven entirely by local communities and organisations – with all areas eligible to submit proposals.

The Borders is among a number of places to have submitted an early expression of interest in becoming a national park to the Scottish Government.

Minister for green skills, circular economy and biodiversity Lorna Slater said: “Scotland’s national parks are among our greatest assets. They are home to internationally renowned landscapes and nature, and provide outstanding opportunities for recreation and local communities. They also play a crucial role in tackling climate change and protecting our precious natural environment for future generations.

“Now is the time to add to them. We believe that a new national park should be founded upon local community demand, which is why we are launching this unique nominations process.

“In May we invited early expressions of interest and we have already had a really positive response from communities and organisations across the length and breadth of the country. This is not at all surprising given just how much Scotland has to offer.

“I encourage everyone that is considering putting forward a proposal to read the guidance that we have published on the Scottish Government website, and get in touch to find out about the support available.”

There are currently two national parks in Scotland – the Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

The Scottish Government committed to designating at least one new site by the end of this parliamentary session in 2026.

To meet the criteria, groups must be able to demonstrate, among other factors: outstanding national importance due to natural or culture heritage; a distinctive character and coherent identity; how national park status would meet the specific needs of the area; and evidence of local support for the proposal.

The deadline for submissions is February 29.

Campaigners have outlined the case for a park to be established in the Borders in recent years.

It is hoped it would give tourism in the region a boost, as well as preserving the area’s landscape and cultural heritage.

Convener at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority Dr Heather Reid said: “It is clear that more than ever we need our national parks to lead the way in showing what a more sustainable future could look like.

“The people, communities and natural assets of Scotland’s national parks – existing and future – can contribute significantly to Scotland’s efforts to restore nature, tackle climate change and have greener economic growth.”

Cairngorms National Park Authority Board convener Sandy Bremner added: “National park status can bring enormous benefits to a region. It offers a heightened focus on the protection and enhancement of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. It can attract vital support to hard-pressed communities, and bring people together to achieve inspirational change."

In spring all nominations will be appraised against the criteria set out in the appraisal framework. This will inform the decision of which area or areas should go forward for designation as a new national park.

In the summer NatureScot will carry out a detailed investigation into the area or areas selected. Based on the outcome of that investigation, legislation is expected to be brought forward in order to designate at least one new national park by 2026.

Other areas to express an early interest include Galloway; Tay Forest; Lochaber; Eilean a' Cheo (Skye and Raasay); Affric to Alladale; Glen Affric; the Lammermuirs; Largo Bay; and Loch Awe.